Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh.
"Talk"
'Thoughts'
Flashback/Dream
...
"I can't believe that bitch." Mai fumed loudly, stomping around Yugi's living room. like an angry animal. "I just can't believe it."
"Mai, calm down." Joey said comfortingly. Mai whipped her head to glare at him.
"Calm down? You want me to calm down?" She screamed. "How can I calm down when my career is being destroyed? How can I calm down when I am being publicly challenged and humiliated by a no-good, revengeful bitch? How?"
"Only if you had been there, listening to her talk in that mocking, superior tone, you wouldn't tell her to calm down." Serenity said, recalling earlier occurrences of the day.
(Flashback)
"Here madam, this came for you." A maid said obediently, entering the living room of Kaiba Mansion, where Mai and Serenity were in conversation. Serenity took the paper from the girl and shooed her away.
"What is it?" Mai asked curiously. Serenity turned the envelope over to inspect and soon, a distasteful frown appeared on her face.
"It's from her." Her voice held so much poison that Mai instantly figured out who "her" was.
"What does she want now?" Serenity opened the envelope and began reading the contents, eyes widening with each line. Mai frowned at Serenity changing expressions.
"What is it?" She asked, slightly worried. Wordlessly, Serenity handed her the paper to read. Mai took it cautiously and began reading, however, her reaction was very different from Serenity's.
"What the hell is this?" She yelled, glaring at Serenity. "She is launching her own clothing line? Who the hell does she think she is?"
"I can't believe it. Why would she do that?" Serenity said, also displaying signs of anger. "She knows we already have a well established clothing line in Domino."
"She wants to challenge us." Mai said through clenched teeth. "A few small success' have gotten to her head and now she thinks she can do anything."
"Mai, what are we going to do?" Serenity asked in a worried tone. Before Mai could reply, her cell phone rang. Mai picked it up.
"Hello, Mai Valentine speaking." She spoke flippantly.
"Hi Mai, hope I didn't catch you at a bad time." The sugary sweet voice coming from the other side caused Mai's jaw to clench. Serenity mouthed 'who'.
"What do you want?" Mai spat. Besides her, Serenity whispered.
"Is it her?" Mai nodded her head.
"You can put me on speaker." Tea said causally. "I need to speak to both of you and I know you guys are together." Mai glared at the phone before pressing a button to put it on speaker.
"Why are you calling us?" Serenity asked angrily. On the other side, Tea laughed.
"I am guessing that you just received my invitation."
"What invitation? All we got was a card announcing the launching of your clothing line." Serenity spat.
"It is formally an invitation, informing you of an event, and then at the bottom, it invites you to attend." Tea explained. "If you can't read, maybe you should let Mai read and confirm it for you." They could practically feel her smirk. Serenity glared at the phone harder.
"I can read." She said while Mai quickly read the invitation before speaking.
"Why the hell do you want us to be at your launching? There will be enough people to criticize you and mock you. Or do you need us specifically to put you in your place?" Mai mocked. Once again, Tea laughed in reply.
"Whatever helps you sleep at night Mai. The only reason I want you to be there is to show you that I am better than you. I want you to be there when I put an end to your ridiculously priced garbage. Of course, if you feel threatened and don't want to be humiliated again, it's fine. I understand. I'm sure the media will quote on your behalf." With that, Tea hung up.
(End flashback)
"Do you see now what she wants Yugi?" Mai said, staring at Yugi who was busy looking at the carpet.
"She is a bitch. She only wants to ruin our lives. I don't know why she is so hell bent on this revenge." Serenity said.
"If anyone should be angry, it should be us." Mai said. "She said all those things to us and to Serenity when the only one to blame was herself. She was the one who failed to hold on to her man, and took out her frustrations on all of us."
"I still remember all the things she said. She was so rude." Serenity sniffed.
"But even after all that, you still took her side, saying we needed to be understanding of her feelings." Mai said to Yugi in a mocking tone. "You said we needed to give her another chance. And we all listened to you. We called her and even though she ignored all our calls and never once replied, we went to her place to talk to her."
"Even though she didn't deserve a bit of our pity." Serenity added spitefully.
"And then we found out she had left, without so much as a notice, as if we meant nothing to her." Mai said. "I said right there and then that she didn't value our friendship. And now you see that I was right."
"My girlfriend has been humiliated, my sister is ridiculed, my business is in ruins, and now she wants to ruin my sister and girlfriend's business too. Do you still think we should give her another chance Yugi?" Joey asked angrily. Yugi just bent his head lower.
"I never knew you were so weak Yugi." Mai said in a biting tone. "Fine. Be that way. I'll deal with her on my own. Just because she won one lousy duel by fluke, she thinks she can challenge me and beat me in everything." Mai fumed as she paced around like a wounded tiger. "Well, I'll show her how wrong she is."
"Maybe you shouldn't do anything." Tristan said. "Tea called you to rile you up and it is working perfectly. You are angry and a decision made in anger is always regretted later."
"Then what do you think we should do?" Mai asked hotly.
"Let her be." Tristan said with a shrug of his shoulders. "If she wants to compete with you, then let her."
"What the hell? Are you telling me to be a sitting duck and just watch as she stomps around like a queen?" Mai yelled.
"Look, she obviously wants you to react and make a fool of yourself. Don't give her the satisfaction of seeing her prediction come true." Tristan said wisely.
"So you're saying she'll make a fool of herself?" Joey said, now fuming with anger. "What kind of friend are you?"
"Look man, I'm only trying to help." Tristan said, also getting angry. "You saw what she did to her before. Do you want there to be a repeat?"
"Why are you saying negative things like that?" Serenity asked. "You should support us and help us think of a way to bring that bitch down."
"Don't you guys get it?" Tristan yelled, losing his patience. "She is a lot smarter than we anticipated, and she is bent on ruining all of us. The smartest move on our part now would be to try and talk to her."
"What the hell are you saying?" Joey yelled, getting up. "You want us to beg for forgiveness? What is wrong with you?"
"Did she buy your cheap ass with a few autographs that now you are on her side?" Mai spat.
"You know what, I don't care what you do." Tristan said, getting up and heading towards the door. "If you guys want to screw yourself, go ahead. I don't give a shit. I am already paying the price of your stupidity and I don't want any more of it." With that, he walked out. He could hardly believe their arrogance and stupidity. Tea was much more influential than they had imagined. She had ruined a few of them and he knew she would not rest until she had ruined them all. They were stupid to think they could defeat her at this game of revenge.
With a sigh, he took out his cell phone and dialed a friendly number. She always knew what to say to make him feel better. He hoped she would help him now as well.
Tea causally walked around Domino Park, dressed in a simple black top and a blue skirt. Her hair were tied in a loose ponytail, covered by a black hat supporting New York Yankees logo. To finish her look and hide her identity, she was wearing a huge pair of shades. From far, she looked like an ordinary female taking a walk in the park.
She had been bored in the house and had decided to enjoy Domino. Alistair was busy working, and Joshua and Steven were working on final arrangements for her clothing line launching. She had been working with them non-stop until Steven had literally picked her up and forcefully thrown her out of the house to get some fresh air. But she wasn't angry with him. She knew he only wanted what was best for her. And she had to admit, coming to the park was very refreshing. It was early afternoon and the park looked nearly deserted, save the few squirrels and birds that popped their heads up every now and then. The sun was covered by white clouds, decreasing its intensity, and making way for a beautiful and cool day.
She hummed to herself as she walked when her eyes fell on a large woman. The woman was attempting to bend down in the most ridiculous way Tea had ever seen. She was spreading her knees apart and trying to move lower towards the ground, as if to sit. Her one hand was holding on to a nearby bench and the other was outstretched towards the ground. Tea watched with curiosity as to why the woman was taking such a difficult approach. She watched the woman give up and straighten up to stand and that's when Tea realized that the large woman was actually large due to pregnancy. Her stomach was visibly protruded out. No wonder she couldn't bend properly. Tea saw the woman size up for another attempt and she quickly ran to her.
"I can help you." She said and bent down to pick up a set of keys. She handed them to the woman.
"Oh thank you so much." The woman said, looking at Tea fondly. "I don't know what I would have done had you not come." Tea smiled and studied the woman. She was young and quite beautiful, with flowing red hair and sparkling green eyes.
"By the way, my name is Nina." The red-head said.
"It's very nice to meet you." Tea said with a smile. "What were you doing out here in your condition? Shouldn't you be resting?" Nina laughed loudly.
"Everyone keeps telling me that, but I'm just so stubborn. I sit at home all day and frankly, it was giving me a butt ache. I decided to take a walk in the park, enjoy fresh air, and stretch my legs a bit. I live close." Tea nodded.
"But you should have brought someone with you." Nina smiled again.
"For a stranger without a name, you sure care a lot." Tea blushed in embarrassment, contemplating whether she should reveal her identity or not. Nina seemed like a good woman, and she wasn't in a state to really bother her. Maybe she should reveal her identity.
"I'm sorry for being rude and not introducing myself." Tea said, taking her glasses off. "I'm Tea Gardner." Nina gasped loudly, hands covering her mouth.
"Wow, I can't believe I'm meeting you." Tea smiled in return. "I have seen a few of your movies and I really like your acting. My fiancé is not a big fan of American movies. He only likes action or horror if we ever see an American movie. But I watch anything with good reviews and all of your movies received rave reviews. I'm a big fan." Nina gushed.
"Thank you Nina." Tea said with an embarrassed smile.
"What are you doing here without any bodyguards?" Nina asked curiously.
"Actually, my bodyguard kicked me out of the house to get some fresh air." Tea said and Nina laughed. "You've probably heard that I'm about to give a preview of my clothing line. I've been working on it for a while now and he thought I needed a break."
"Well, I'm glad he kicked you out and I'm glad I came out because it gave us the opportunity to meet." Nina said and Tea nodded.
"You know, if you can make it, I'd like to invite you to come to the preview, as my friend." Tea offered and Nina's eyes widened in disbelief.
"Oh I'd love to." She squealed. "Thank you so much. You really are nice." But then her face fell. "But I don't think I'll be able to make it. My fiancé won't allow it."
"Because of your condition?" Tea inquired and Nina shook her head.
"That too, and also because he doesn't like you very much." Tea shrugged her shoulders. She couldn't make everyone love her. Nina noticed the reaction and quickly began speaking.
"Oh, it's not that he doesn't like your acting, or you as a person. It's just his business has taken a blow indirectly because of you. Actually, it is all his friends fault. He was the idiot who acted stupidly. Even a child knows you don't threaten someone, especially not a celebrity, but Joey is stupid." Tea's eye brows rose, her heart beating fast.
"Who… who is your fiancé?" She slowly asked.
"Tristan Taylor." Nina replied with a big smile, her hands wrapping around her stomach. "He is Joey's friend and business partner. But he is not like Joey at all." Nina said, defending her fiancé. "He is very sweet and kind and caring and loving. He takes such good care of me and everyone around him. I don't particularly like Mai and Serenity and don't get along very well with them. And even though he is good friends with them, he never forces me to come to their house. He gives me so much freedom and choice." A fond smile appeared on Nina's face.
"When I first told him I was pregnant, he nearly fainted. Can you believe it.? A full grown man nearly fainted." Nina laughed before continuing. "Of course he denied it then and still denies it, but I know better. But he has been very supportive. He has taken care of me since then. Just recently he-." Nina would have continued to speak had it not been for her cell phone ringing. She excused herself and picked it up.
"Hi baby, you won't believe who I'm standing with right now." As soon as she had begun speaking, Tea knew who was on the other line.
"It's the famous Tea Gardner. I dropped my keys and she helped me. She is so nice." This was followed by silence during which Tea presumed Tristan spoke, and by the looks of Nina's frown, it wasn't something nice.
"Honey, I'm fine. I came out to the park for a walk and found her." More silence. Tea shifted uncomfortably on her feet. She couldn't believe it. Tristan had a fiancé and was a father-to-be? And his fiancé was such a sweet woman. It seemed unreal.
"Okay, I'm waiting right here. Bye." Nina hung up and Tea ended her train of thoughts. Nina smiled, but Tea could tell something was wrong. This smile didn't seem as honest as her previous ones.
"He is worried about me and is going to come pick me up. He wasn't particularly thrilled of the idea of our meeting. I think he is just a bit paranoid. I apologize for him." Tea shook her head.
"It's no problem. I understand how he must feel." She knew perfectly well what Tristan thought, and he wasn't at fault for his assumptions.
"I should probably get going. I'm assuming you would be okay on your own." Tea said.
"No, you must wait and meet him." Nina insisted. "He is a very nice guy. I think he has some misconceptions about you but you can talk and clear them out. He'll be here in a few minutes. Please, I really want you guys to meet and get along."
"I don't think that's necessary." Tea said and began walking when Nina ran and held her arm.
"Please, I assure you he is not like Joey. He had nothing to do with what Joey said or did. He doesn't think of you like that." Nina begged. Tea opened her mouth to reply but was interrupted by the sound of screeching tires. They both looked towards the road and saw a tall man run towards them.
"Nina, are you okay?" Tristan asked, holding his finance's shoulders. "Are you tired? Do you feel any pain?" She shook her head.
"I'm fine Tristan. I'm pregnant, not injured or sick." Tristan openly frowned.
"I told you to stay at home. This baby is due any day and you are walking around like you don't even have a clue. What if something happened to you?"
"Nothing could have happened to me." Nina huffed at his overly concerned attitude. "I can take care of myself. Besides, Tea was here. She was such good company." Tristan removed his eyes from Nina and stared at Tea.
"It's nice to meet you." Tea said with a small fake smile, however, her eyes reflected nothing.
"Th…thank you for taking care of her." Tristan pretended before his fiancé. He hadn't told her about Tea and their past, and didn't want to tell now either.
"She is very nice. I enjoyed talking to her." Tea said. Nina beamed in joy.
"Nina, babe, why don't you go and sit in the car? I have to speak with Miss Gardner. I'll be there in a minute." Nina nodded her head and said her goodbye to Tea before walking away from them. Both watched her, and as soon as she had closed the car door, Tristan turned towards Tea with furious eyes.
"What did you do to her?" He demanded. Tea remained emotionless.
"I did nothing."
"You were going to do something to her, weren't you?" He accused.
"If you are so sure, then why bother asking me?" She said with a sneer.
"Listen Tea, she has nothing to do with this. She hasn't done anything to you so I am warning you, don't harm her in any way. If anything was to happen to her, I won't forgive you and I won't let it go either." He warned and she huffed.
"I'm not so low as to hurt a pregnant woman and her unborn child. Even after I found out about her relationship with you, I wasn't going to harm her. My fight is not with her." With that said, she turned around and began walking away.
"What are you going to do to me?" His low voice caused her to halt, but she didn't turn around. Instead, she kept her back to him as she replied.
"Nothing…. And you can thank your fiancé and your unborn child for that." She quickly walked away, leaving a surprised Tristan behind.
Tea glanced at the crowd gathered in the hall. A lot of VIP's were sitting in the front row, most of them, from the fashion industry. They came to show their support or to possibly see her make a fool of herself. There was also a long line of critics, just itching to rip her to shreds and bring her down from her high pedestal, as well media who could work wonders in either direction for her. She nervously glanced around to find familiar faces and smiled when her eyes fell on Vanessa. At least someone was there to support her unconditionally. She also spotted Mai and Serenity sitting with Duke, Joey, and Seto. She couldn't wait to show them who was better.
"You ready for this?" She heard Steven speak behind her. She turned and nodded her head. He shot her a small smile.
"I've never seen you this nervous before. What's wrong?"
"Nothing." She lied but he continued to stare, forcing her to tell him the truth. "I asked all of them to at least show their faces, but they said they would come for the official launching, not for some preview. They even said this wasn't a good move, and that I shouldn't do it." Steven moved forward and embraced her gently.
"Don't doubt yourself now." He said soothingly. "I think you are doing the right thing. It would help Vanessa and the girls, and also put those two in their place."
"What's happening here?" Alistair spoke from behind them. They separated to see him standing with Joshua and Mokuba.
"Steven, are you trying to steal my girlfriend?" Alistair said with accusing eyes. Steven rolled his eyes.
"She was feeling alone since all her designers decided to ditch this event." He explained.
"I was surprised when they said no." Joshua said. "I mean, they are all new designers, some of them barely interns and you gave them a chance. And this is how they repay you? The line isn't even out yet and they are already acting so arrogant. I just want to fly back for a few hours, kick their ass and come back to tell you all about it." Tea smiled at his words.
"As far as I am concerned, it's their loss." Alistair said with a shrug of his shoulders. "They would regret it when they hear about the success of this event."
"Besides, you don't need them." Mokuba said. "You've got all of us." Tea smiled graciously.
"Thanks guys. I needed to hear that."
"Group hug." Joshua yelled and engulfing them all in his large embrace. Everyone laughed loudly as Steven roughly pushed him off.
"Miss, Tea, we are ready." A young woman, one of the organizers of the event said.
"Okay. Let's do this." Tea said in a determined tone.
The crowd erupted in cheers as she appeared on the runway, holding a microphone.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen." She spoke formally. "First and foremost, I want to thank all of you for coming to this event, the preview of my clothing line, Elegante Divino by T.G., Italian for Divine Elegance. Nothing like this has ever been done before, and I've been told by many that this is a mistake. So I'm very nervous and I ask in advance that you please forgive the many mistake I'm prone to make tonight." She paused to take in their smiling faces.
"I have worked on this line with a few other designers and the name was their choice. I would have liked them all to be here, but unfortunately, they can't make it. They are busy with the preparations for official launching that will occur in a few months in USA. Therefore, tonight you will only get to see a few of the outfits that I personally have designed. The rest you will see in a few months." She paused to let them digest the information she had provided.
"I know you all are curious to know why I decided to give this preview, and if I have some evil ulterior motive behind this. But I can't give you the answer you want to hear. For that, you'll have to turn to the ever-creative media. All I can say is that this event is merely a treat for my hometown Domino, and nothing else." She paused to take a breath and take in their reactions. Most were nodding their head in acceptance, but some had smirks on their faces, assuming there was something else going on. Oh well, she didn't care.
"With that said, let's get this show on the road." She said and soon, the music began playing. Tea walked backstage and quickly met with the girl first to be on the runway. She was one of the dancers from Vanessa's school, and had worked with Tea on the performance.
"Okay, just relax and do as we practiced." Tea said to the girl who nodded before walking out. Tea met with Alistair and the others and began watching the show from a carefully hidden spot.
After speaking with a few of her designer friends who had shown support for her decision, they had decided to showcase a few outfits for girls and a few for men, going from casual wear to formal wear. Tea and five other girls were to model the dresses, whereas Mokuba, Joshua, and Alistair were to showcase suits. Steven had kindly declined, opting to play a part in organizing the event.
Tea watched the girls model her creations, her smile becoming wider with each outfit and the reaction is drew from the crowd. There were appreciative nods, some stares of awes, and in a few cases, vile, jealous looks. So far, the preview was a success. The girls, all from the dance school, had done an amazing job and Tea was glad she had made that choice. She wasn't paying them, but they were getting to keep the outfit they modeled. Also, a good percent from the night was going to their dance school, not to mention the publicity. All in all, it had turned out to be a good night, or at least she assumed from all the clapping at the end of the show. Even many of the critics seemed fine with her efforts.
"I guess it's time for the designer to take the stage." Alistair whispered in her ear before kissing her gently. She smiled and walked before all the people. The clapping grew louder and she beamed at them, mouthing 'thank yous' and bowing in gratitude.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the designer, Tea Gardner." Alistair's voice came from the speakers and people cheered. She swept her gaze over the crowd, stopping until she caught the famous designers and their posse. Serenity was worried. Mai was fuming, red with anger. Joey was angrily muttering to Duke who was nodding his head. And then there was Seto. He just stood there, eyes fixed on her. Their eyes met, and for a second she felt self-conscious. She felt his gaze wash over her, bind her, freeze her, and she couldn't pull away. His eyes weren't as cold as they appeared in her nightmares. No, they seemed warm, and dare she say proud? But why would he be proud of her? She had delivered a blow to his girlfriend's business and reputation.
"I just have one last treat for all of you." Tea abruptly broke her eyes away from Seto to stare perplexedly at the speakers from where Alistair's voice was coming from. She didn't know of this. She thought the show was over. She would need to speak to Alistair about this. She turned to go back stage when she saw him approach her on the stage.
"Alistair, what are you doing?" She asked him with arms crossed over her chest. He smirked and continued to speak to the audience.
"Every time we meet, we bring each other a present." He held Tea's hand and kissed the knuckles. "This time when we met, it was a surprise visit from me before the media, and she thought that going public with our relationship was the present. What I got as my present, I won't tell." He winked and Tea blushed, muttering a small 'Alistair' in embarrassment.
"But she was wrong." Then he turned to her. "I have worked on this for a while and I'm very proud of it." Alistair said with a smile, eyes twinkling at Tea. "And I hope you'll love it as much as I do." He flicked his wrist and then at the jumbo screen appeared a picture of Tea. Gasps filled the air. Even Tea was surprised at what she saw.
It was a picture of her alright, but it was her lying on a bed, barely covered in red sheets, sketched to the finest detail. Her face, nestled comfortably in the pillow appeared almost life-like, the rosy hue of her cheeks captured perfectly. A few strands of her hair were fallen on her cheek, giving her the appearance of an innocent angel, though almost naked.
Her pale shoulders were bare, as were the swell of her ample breasts. That's when the sheet began, covering her modesty, much to her relief. She was lying on her side, her arms twisted to hold the bed sheet in a gentle grip. Even though the red sheet covered her chest, waist, and her butt, her curves were still very much visible. Moving further down the picture, one was greeted with the sight of creamy long legs, peeking from the sheets. Once again, the detail of her body was well captured. Overall, she looked like an ethereal creature, out of this world.
"Oh my God." She whispered. "Alistair…"
"Do you like it?" He asked.
"It's beautiful." She said, turning to him with a huge smile. "Thank you for making me look so beautiful."
"You are beautiful." He replied, thumb brushing her cheek gently. "Do you remember the night?" She blushed, but her smile didn't fade.
"When did you make it?"
"When you fell asleep, which was quite soon since I had tired you quite a bit." This was followed by her blushing and a few chuckles from the audience who were now carefully watching the two lovers.
"I went to the bathroom and when I came back and saw you, I was just so entranced by the sight that I decided to capture it. I took a picture of you first in case you turned or moved and I lost the image. But thankfully, you were so tired from all our previous activities, you slept without moving an inch, and I was able to make this for you." She hugged him and whispered.
"Thank you." He smirked and moved his mouth to whisper in her ear.
"I expect a different thanks later on tonight." She giggled and pulled away.
"Are there any more surprises or can we call it a night?" She asked and he smirked.
"Just this." Before she could think, she felt him press his lips against her in a passionate kiss. Unconsciously, she pressed her body into his, moaning when his tongue entered her mouth to massage hers. But he pulled away too soon, eyes holding promise of much more to come. Tea then turned to the audience with a visible blush.
"And that is all. Thank you for coming. Enjoy the rest of your night." Another round of applause broke out. Tea took one last look at the angry, sulking crew and found that Seto had joined them as well. Tonight had proven to be quite productive, but there was still much to do.
She held Alistair's hand as they walked into the crowd and mingled with the guests. The media surrounded them, throwing questions left and right, and both were careful to tackle some and dodge most. Many fashion critics came to applaud her effort and critique her on some aspects they found wrong. She honestly took their advice, determined to not make the same mistakes again.
"I never vud have thought that vun of Kaiba's friends vud be so fashion literate." German accent, coupled with long pink flowing hair meant only one person, Zigfried Lloyd. Alistair and Tea both turned to greet him.
"Zigfried, it's good to see you again." Alistair said, shaking the man's hand. "Haven't seen you since that contract signing." Both were business associates. Seto may have had issues with Zigfried, but his attitude towards the pink haired man had paved way for good relations between him and Alistair, both of whom shared a common dislike for the blue eyed billionaire.
"I vos bizi vith helping Leon establish his own company. But I'm not here for you." He said, dismissing Alistair and turning to Tea.
"You, my dear, are just as talented as beautiful. I'm truly entranced." He said, grabbing her hand and kissing the back of it. Tea smiled charmingly.
"Thank you for attending, and thank you for the compliments. Coming from Germany's most fashionable businessman, they mean a lot." He chuckled.
"Very modest. I like it." He said. "But you did a good job. If possible, I vud like to place an early order for some of your suits. I vant to be the first to vear them, especially the blue colored vun" Tea nodded her head.
"Of course." She said.
"Vell, I should be going. I don't vant to keep Amelda from his voman." Tea giggled and watched as Zigfried disappeared out of sight.
"I vud have liked it if he went to talk to Kaiba." Alistair said, trying to imitate Zigfried's accent.
"Oh stop it." Tea said with a laugh, slapping his shoulder lightly. He smirked and they proceeded to speak with guests until Tea expressed the need to get something to drink and excused herself. She walked around, looking for two haughty women, but they were nowhere to be found, nor were their boyfriends. She chuckled inwardly, picturing their fuming faces. Her eyes caught sight of another unfriendly face and she hurried towards him.
Duke Devlin had stayed to flirt with the gorgeous women present at the party. Given changed circumstances, he would have given Tea a shot as well, but… oh well. There were plenty of others for him to play with. So when Mai and Serenity had insisted he leave with them, he had declined. He planned on taking a hot woman to bed tonight and so far, his search was still going. He was busy following a beautiful woman when he heard his name being called. Turning around, he saw the last person he wanted to see.
"What do you want?" He asked cautiously, having learnt from Joey's and Mai's mistakes. Tea smiled sweetly at him.
"I just wanted to speak with you. Is that too much to ask?" She said innocently. He grunted.
"Don't feign innocence. I know you." He spat. "And I won't fall for your tricks." She smirked.
"What do you mean?" She kept up the act.
"I know what you did to the others. I won't be made a fool." He growled and she let out a melodious laugh.
"You're so paranoid. You think what happened to them, I did on purpose?" He only glared and she smiled. "They made mistakes and then paid the price for it. I was merely the scapegoat they used to put the blame on."
"Yeah right. And this thing tonight?" He mocked. "It was an accident too, right?"
"No." She shook her head. "Mai and Serenity said insulting things. They called me talentless and worthless. I just wanted to prove to them and myself that they weren't right. I am not here to play silly games with you guys. I am here on vacation, to get away from my hectic life in USA." Her voice lowered, as did her eyes.
"I didn't leave happily, and that haunted me. I came back to get over the demons that ruled my nights. I came to reconcile with my past and accept it." At that moment, she looked utterly vulnerable and harmless, and Duke's eyes softened, his posture relaxing, as if some threat had been eliminated.
"I didn't expect a warm welcome, but I wasn't prepared for the cold attitudes either." She admitted. "I realized we had drifted apart too much and I accepted it. I have made new friends and a new life, and I realize that I would have only that. And I'm okay with it." She raised her eyes to look at him.
"What I'm not okay with is your ridiculous notions that I am here to get some revenge on you for something that was my fault." Duke raised his eyebrows at her and she began explaining.
"Losing Kaiba was my fault. He was more mature than I was, and he needed sexual relief. He made his desires known a few months into our dating period, but I was afraid. I didn't want him to think I was easily attainable. It was not wrong of him to find someone else who gave in to his desires. He found happiness somewhere else and I should have been happy with it, not jealous." She took a deep breath before speaking again. "But that is all in the past. I have someone in my life and I am happy. And I hope Kaiba is as well." She became quiet, allowing him the opportunity to speak, but he was at a loss of words. He hadn't expected her to be so open about her past. He hadn't had the opportunity to see her after her welcoming party but he had been told much about her from the others. Funny, the picture they painted was very different than the girl standing before him.
"I know you don't trust me because of what they may have said to you. And if you want to believe what they say, it's your choice. You can believe that they are being targeted by me out of malice for what they did to me in the past. But then that frees you because you didn't do anything. You weren't even there when Kaiba and Serenity announced their relationship. So I can't blame you. And I'm not so shallow to hold a grudge against you just because you are friends with them. After all, I was once their friend too." She smiled beautifully at him and he managed a small smile as well.
The truth was that he had been there when it had happened. Hell, he had made some pretty nasty comments too, but if she didn't remember, why would he remind her and turn her against him? She was of much use as a friend then as a foe, and she had proved that.
"So how is life treating you?" She asked, her eyes casually glancing over his shoulder before settling on him . He smirked.
"Good."
"Did you enjoy the show?" She asked, inching closer to him.
"Of course I did. Hot girls prancing around in sexy clothes, what man wouldn't?" She giggled.
"Still the same flirtatious and sexy guy I see." She said with a smirk.
"You know it babe." He winked in response.
"So what are you still doing here?" She asked. "The rest of your group is gone."
"I wanted to fully enjoy the night." He commented, and she giggled again, flipping her hair behind her.
"I bet you were looking for a girl for the night." She teased playfully.
"You're right. I am. Know anyone?" He asked eyeing her up and down.
"I may." She said coyly, moving closer and tracing circles on his chest suggestively. "But she already has a boyfriend. Do you mind?" He gulped slightly.
"Does she mind?" He countered and Tea raised her head to look him directly in the eye.
"No." Her voice was firm as she spoke. "She just wants a good night with a sexy and experienced man."
"Why doesn't she ask her boyfriend?" He asked, feeling her fingers slide lower to gently brush his belt buckle. His own hands itched to hold her waist and bring her closer.
"She wants a change, and a man who is creative in bed." Duke held in a gasp when her fingers brushed over his pants, making them feel much tighter then when he had first worn them. She began gently pulling him towards a dim hallway.
"This is not like you." Duke managed to speak as he felt her kiss and nip at his neck. His own hands began moving up and down her curves. "You're not like this." She huffed against his neck and pulled her face away.
"It's not like the old me. She was oh-so-nice, wanting to remain pure and innocent forever, and look where it got her. I am different. I value life and pleasure over stupid morals." She licked her lips invitingly and spoke. "Life is a treat to enjoy, and I intend to do just that. You are welcomed to join me if you want." She said seductively and moved into a dark corner to hide from any oncoming intruders. So far they had none and Duke had a feeling it would remain that way, or at least he hoped.
He turned his attention back to her. She looked so beautiful, so delectable, almost too good to let go. The image of her half naked picture appeared in his mind and he groaned with desire. He would be damned if he refused her invitation. Quickly grabbing her arm, he moved closer to her and slammed his lips desperately against hers. She moaned and pressed further into his body. His hands roamed her curves, squeezing her sides, earning more moans from her. Her own hands desperately began working on his shirt buttons. Not wanting to be the one left behind, he latched onto her neck, sucking like a rabid animal. His hands reached her butt and gave it a firm squeeze. She gasped.
"Duke you devil." She said, nibbling on his earlobe. He growled and bit the sensitive skin of her neck. She moaned at the pain it brought.
"You like it rough huh?" He growled against her skin and she moaned.
"Yes. Rough. Don't be gentle. I want to feel you." She whispered breathily.
"Whatever you say babe." He said and squeezed her butt again before removing his mouth from her neck to kiss her fully on the lips. Their tongues dueled erotically in their mouths. Tea was the first to pull away and began kissing down his slightly revealed chest. She flicked her tongue at his collarbone and he growled loudly, roughly grabbing her by the hair and pulling her up.
"If you want it that way, then so be it." He said and removed the straps of her dress off her shoulders, his mouth quickly latching onto the revealed skin. He kissed down her shoulder and began nipping at her collarbone.
"Oh Duke." She moaned. "Please don't do that. It… it drives me crazy." He smirked against her skin.
"Oh really?" He said and took the skin between his teeth, letting his tongue flip over it. She fell against his chest.
"Oh… oh…. Stop it. You'll drive me insane with desire. Stop it." Her weak protests only drove him madder with lust. He moved his lips lower, inching closer and closer to her breasts.
"No Duke." She moaned. "Not there. I can't control it when someone touches me there." Highly encouraged by her words, he brought his one hand to cup her breast, slightly lifting the soft mound and causing more skin to protrude out of her dress.
"No, stop." She said, gently pushing against him. "We shouldn't do it here." He paid no heed to her words. She wanted to play cute, then it was fine by him. He sucked the top of her breast, causing her to mewl and moan.
"Duke, stop. I'm saying stop." She begged him. He smirked against her breast.
"No. You want it. Say that you want it." He squeezed her breast roughly again and she let out a small scream.
"Duke, stop. Please… stop."
"Say you want it." He said between nips and bites. "Say you want me."
"What the hell are you doing you sick shit?" Alistair's voice boomed through the hallway and Duke abruptly pulled away from Tea's chest to stare at the fast approaching angry male. He quickly began backing away, but Alistair was quicker, and delivered a fine punch to his face, causing him to fall on the ground.
"Tea, are you okay?" Alistair asked her in a concerned tone.
"Oh Alistair, I… I tried to… tell him… I pushed him…. but he won't listen." Tea said between sobs and Duke was shocked at how quickly she had changed colors. What the hell? Just a second ago, she had been like a wanton.
"What the hell were you thinking?" A man, who had been with Alistair, said to Duke, who was still bewildered.
"Have you lost your mind? Don't you ever use your head to think or is it always through your pants?" Another said angrily. Duke finally got some sense and stood up.
"She came to me." He said in his defence and everyone scoffed.
"Yeah right. We all know the kind of horny man you are Duke and how she is. You actually expect us to believe that?" One said, glaring at him.
"And we heard her and you. We heard someone saying 'stop' and we came to investigate. We saw you trying to rape her and we heard her begging you to stop." Duke shook his head.
"No. I swear I'm telling you the truth. She came to me."
"Shut up with your lies already." One man snapped at him.
"Tea, what happened? What were you doing here?" Alistair asked her gently. She sniffed and began speaking.
"I was getting a drink when I saw him so I decided to talk to him. The media has been publishing stories about how I have a grudge against him and his friends so I wanted to clear things between us." She said. "I told him it wasn't true and I actually wanted to be friends with them. I never realized when we entered this hallway, and then he… suddenly… he pushed me… in that corner and…" Sobs shook her body and Alistair engulfed her in his protective embrace, glaring at a pale Duke.
"You'll pay for this Devlin. Mark my words." Alistair threatened. "I swear I'll make you pay for each and every one of her tears." He gently led Tea away from the guys. The other two men glared at Duke.
"This is the stupidest thing you have ever done, and you'll pay for it greatly." They also walked away, leaving Duke alone to ponder over what had just happened.
Everyone surrounded Tea and Alistair as came out. They had all noticed her long absence, and now noticed her tears. All fired questions, but Alistair and Tea kept their mouths shut.
"Please, she was nearly raped by that sick minded Duke Devlin." One man who had been with them came to their rescue. Everyone now turned to him, asking him questions. But Alistair and Tea were still surrounded.
"Let us go please. We have had a rough night." Alistair said. "If you want any answers, you can ask them." He said, motioning to the two men who had witnessed everything with him. "They saw what I saw. I'm sure they will tell you the truth." Steven and Joshua quickly began pushing people away to make a path for Alistair and Tea to escape. They led them to their limo and then closed the door, motioning the driver to take them away.
Inside the limo, Tea sniffed one more time and Alistair handed her a tissue box. She began wiping her face.
"I can't believe you took so long. He nearly had me undressed." She said, cleaning the mascara off her cheeks. Alistair held another tissue and began cleaning her other cheek gently.
"I couldn't find anyone decent to come. Everyone one else would have enjoyed the show a little too much." She nodded her head and inspected her face in the mirror.
"Now I just have to go home, take a shower, get his scent off me and I'll be done." She said. Alistair pulled her into his lap and gently kissed her.
"I'm glad you got what you wanted." He said. She rested her head on his chest and sighed.
"Alistair, thanks for being so understanding." He smiled gently and ran his fingers through her hair.
"I thought of it as nothing more than acting. To me, it was like one of your movie scenes when you have to kiss your co-stars or imitate sex and passion. What gives me relief is that they only get acting, but I get the real thing." She pulled away and kissed him again.
"Thank you." He chuckled.
"You know, this just means that you have a lot of thanking to do later." He said and she smiled sexily.
"You bet." She said and rested her cheek against his chest again.
"Four down, just two more to go."
...
Thanks for reading. Please review and let me know what you think.